Paradise. That’s the word that immediately comes to mind when one thinks of the beauty and serenity of the Maldives. A literal paradise of pristine white sand, characteristic isolated huts on stilts above the crystal clear waters, the abundance of colourful sea life, and picturesque sunsets – only a few of the gifts promised at the mention of The Maldives. Often the honeymooners first choice, this picture-perfect destination is the epitome of luxury and romance, with private islands and exclusive suites steps away from the endless surrounding views of the azure waves. It’s not just the natural beauty that tempts guests however, completed with five-star accommodation opportunities, the Maldives offers the ultimate dreamy holiday experience like no other.

The Sheraton Full Moon & Spa Resort is one of the stand-out hotels offering the incredibly romantic and luxurious Maldives experience. The arching palm trees on the resort, foregrounded to the sounds of the waves melodising with bird song, and the coral seascape with hidden gems dotted under the clear waters, entice guests to experience the natural world right outside their doorstep. Whether it’s yoga on the beautiful sandy beach, snorkelling amongst the corals, gliding stingrays and tropical fish, or a sunset cruise to see spectacular dolphins, The Sheraton Full Moon & Spa Resort presents guests with a truly one-of-a-kind experience, one dreamed about whenever the Maldives are mentioned.

The sandy footpaths leading to the resort’s 176 rooms showcase the beauty of the island, as well as the wonders of the resort. While some guests pine over the private huts situated within the ocean on stilts, where they can swim with the friendly sharks a few steps away from their beds, or bathe in front of the open window admiring the Indian Ocean view, other guests may prefer the inland chalets, surrounded by the bright reds and yellows of the lush tropical vegetation, or thatched villas located near the beach, with private gardens and their own exclusive pools. These ‘Cottage with Pool’ options offer unique open-air bathrooms, as guests can shower and pamper themselves in their own exclusive, private outside area, while absorbing the sunshine. Whilst the resort hosts many guests, the spacious feel of the island allows for the sense of privacy and intimacy one seeks from boutique hotels, yet with the experience and facilities present of a sizable resort.

Guests of the two top tier room options, ‘Ocean Pool Villa’ and ‘Water Suite’, gain extra exclusivity perks like happy hours. Ocean Pool Villa, the largest option of all the suites, is finished with a private patio overlooking the coastline, with everything guests need to relax right on their own doorstep. An outdoor plunge pool, an indulgent hammock and an outdoor shower do create the utmost luxurious vibe. Meanwhile, all the rooms of the resort have a crisp, clean atmosphere with modern décor, and a light, bright colour scheme complimented by high ceilings, providing that spatial feel guests desire.

Located on the island of Furanafushi, the resort is only a short boat ride away from the main airport on the island capital of Male, unlike other hotels which must be accessed via seaplane. Only 20 minutes away from the popular snorkelling site Aquarium Reef, the resort is in an ideal location for cultural and adventurous activities. Although the renowned resort is well-established, being the third oldest resort in the Maldives, the Sheraton Full Moon Resort & Spa has recently been refurbished and modernised with a $20 million renovation.

For the most relaxing experience, the recently opened Shine Spa offers guests lavish wellness treatments, including massages, facials and body treatments. The Spa itself is located on its own island, a walkway away from the villas, providing the ultimate relaxation experience, as the treatments take place with an open fourth wall, placing guests amongst the views and sounds of the surrounding waves. Whilst professionals pamper, destress, and rejuvenate your body, the golden rays shining down on you and the waves crashing around you serve to relax your mind. Designed by the renowned Topo Design Studio, the spa showcases Maldivian architecture, with a contemporary, modern twist, complimenting the upscale décor of the resort.

The resort spoils guests with a choice of seven restaurants and bars, catering for all diets.  Dining al fresco on the beach or enjoying delicious cocktails watching the spectacular sunsets over the lagoon, are just a few of the many options available. Sea Salt, the open-air seafood restaurant, is adjacent to the lagoon, so guests can enjoy traditional Maldivian cuisine whilst relaxing and watching the waves. An incredible unique experience not to be missed is lunching, quite literally, in the Indian Ocean, as friendly waiters bring champagne and fresh seafood from the shore directly to you. In the evenings, the beach magically transforms with fairy-lights and local musicians, creating an intimate, romantic and enchanting atmosphere, with dishes including a fresh fish market buffet.

Each restaurant boasts an inviting, comfortable feel, proclaimed by the coconut roof thatching of Feast, the main restaurant, and the Maldivian, cultural furnishings. Offering both breakfast and dinner, Feast homes themed beach dinners, like Arabian Night, with live entertainment that delights guests alongside the dishes created from around the world by chefs in front of your eyes at the live-cooking stations. Masala Hut hosts more vegetarian options, with a traditional mix of Indian cuisine, Baan Thai presents contemporary yet authentic Thai delights with fresh ingredients flown in from Thailand on a weekly basis, an exclusive restaurant which guests can reserve a table at in advance. ChopstiX overlooks the freshwater pool, where guests can enjoy homemade dumplings and other dishes in an al fresco dining area. Completing the line-up are two smaller bars: the elegant Anchorage Bar, where guests can enjoy a refreshing cocktail admiring the sunset and panoramic views, or sip on a smoothie and nibble on comfort beachside foods like pizzas and gourmet sandwiches, and the Kakuni Hut, a popular Mexican lunchspot directly on Kakuni beach.

One of the most beautiful aspects about the Maldives is the isolation guests seek, with a multitude of options for privacy, from their own huts and suites, to private boating adventures to small, remote islands. For example, a dreamy picnic for two on a nearby sandbank, where you can enjoy a romantic bottle champagne lounging on the hot, white sand, or snorkelling completely undisturbed in the clear waters, is an opportunity not to be missed. The ‘Sand Bank and Guided Snorkelling Excursion’ is one of many organised by the resort for guests to have a truly romantic and indulgent experience.

A recent addition to the hotel, something to complete the luxury experience for guests, are ‘Villa Hosts’. Available on request, these private attendants aid you with driving your buggy to transport you around the island, and escort and guide you on day trips and excursions. The benefit of these hosts allows guests to relax without the practical worries that dampen many holidays.

The Sheraton Adventure Club provides supervised activities for children, allowing parents to relax knowing their little ones are entertained. Adventures for the younger guests include shark feeding sessions, and water sports, allowing them to indulge in the white-sand beach and clear, turquoise waters under the golden rays. Complimentary activities for guests to partake in as families include snorkelling lessons, yoga, various aerobics and fitness classes, beach sports, and even learning the local Dhivehi language – something to keep everyone entertained on this memorable holiday.

These new experiences transform into cherished memories at the five-star Sheraton Full Moon & Spa Resort. The resort’s style and class are boasted through the natural décor, incredible facilities, and stunning views, compliment by the sand, sun and sea. Providing the ultimate relaxation experience, of panoramic views, culinary delights and oozing with luxury and exclusivity, it’s no surprise this resort has been crowned the winner of ‘Best Hotel in Asia’, and has been ranked in the top 5 for the ‘Best Hotel in the World’ category of the prestigious Luxury Lifestyle Magazine Readers’ Travel Awards 2019. It truly is paradise.